Lung Capacity

[bennydorano]

As a one time smoker (smoked for 10 yrs I'm sure and up until last year still would have had a smoke when out for a drink eventhough I had 'quit') I find that my lung capacity seems fairly pants. As a 37 yr old, can/will it recover? Is there anything I can do to improve my aerobic performance?

 

[Hacienda71]

I am 40 and smoked for 20 years until I was 36. I think as soon as you give up your lungs start to recover. I cycle quite quickly compared to the other cyclists I see and am not shy of some lung busting climbs in the Pennines. My advice would be get out on the bike and extend your runs gradually and you should be fine. You may not see an instant improvement but it will come over time. Also warm up by starting your ride at a slightly slower pace then you will avoid over stressing your metabolism early on.

 

[Blue]

I'm sure your breathing will improve the longer you go without smoking. However, you may find it worth looking at a 'Powerbreathe' device - they aren't too expensive and some people swear by them. I think Wiggle and others sell them.

 

[Fab Foodie]

I'm sure your breathing will improve the longer you go without smoking. However, you may find it worth looking at a 'Powerbreathe' device - they aren't too expensive and some people swear by them. I think Wiggle and others sell them.

Agreed. I bought a power-breath but seemed to give-up before it could have any (if any) effect.
But more cycling, intervals, climbing will all help improve your lung function, just don't over do it.

I smoked close to 20 Old Holborn a day from 18 to 42 and have not smoked for 5 years. My lungs aren't perfect but they're waaay better than they were and I cycle pretty well for my age and mileage, close to non-smoker peers.

 

[Moodyman]

I used to go to a gym and run whilst I was smoking.

When I stopped smoking, my gym and running performance improved by 30% within a couple of weeks.

Those hills that I thought was going to vomit on, became manageable (not easy though). The flat sections became a breeze.

And, cycling is a strong cardio activity. The more you ride the more your lung capacity will improve. When you start feeling the improvments, you'll not want to go back to smoking.

 

[JonnyBlade]

Been off the weed for 16 years and at 45 am the fittest I have ever been